[BEHIND THE WHEEL] The Ferrari Portofino M Exists Because Everyone Wants More Power

The 3,855cc V8 engine has been modified to produce an additional 20cv more, bringing up the total to 620cv at 7,500rpm. To get here, Ferrari’s engineers employed new cam profiles to increase valve lift and optimise combustion chamber filling. A speed sensor was added to the turbocharger to measure turbine revolutions, allowing the turbine’s maximum rpm to be increased by 5,000.

An eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox replaces the seven-speed in the previous version. Unlike the SF90 Stradale’s eight-speeder, the Portofino M’s has longer gear ratios and a mechanical reverse gear. A new clutch model made its way here. While it is 20 per cent smaller, it delivers 35 per cent more torque, up to a maximum 1,200Nm of dynamic torque transmitted with every shift.

The Portofino M’s soundtrack is also unique, thanks to an entirely new geometry for the exhaust line, in addition to the flat-plane crankshaft. The two rear silencers have been removed ad by-pass valves are now oval to enhance exhaust sound.

Once again, Ferrari’s Side Slip Control (SSC) makes its way into the supercar. The sixth-generation SSC features E-Diff, F1-TCS, SCM-E Frs and the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) control systems. The FDE uses software to adjust the hydraulic brake pressure at the callipers for better lateral dynamics and is only available the set to Race mode.

For power to match its looks, Ferrari Styling Centre has done a few changes to the exterior. The wraparound front bumpers, new air vent at wheel-arch height, a grille that features new aluminium slats and more streamlined rear bumpers. Other features that were although altered are the rear diffuser and specific diamond-finish wheel rims for the Portofino M.

The Ferrari Portofino M arrives here with a price tag of RM998,000 (before duties, options, taxes and insurance). Every Ferrari sold by Naza Italia comes with a seven-year maintenance program and the Portofino M is no exception.